Greensboro

Downtown Greensboro GA circa 1895

The reign of King Cotton in the early 19th century facilitated the growth of many small towns in the Southern region of the United States.  Greensboro, Georgia, founded in 1803, became the hub of economic growth and the commercial center of Greene County. Fifty years after its founding, Greene became Georgia’s largest cotton-producing county. In 1838, responding to the need to transport the region’s ever-growing crop, the Georgia Railroad reached Greensboro, cementing the city’s status as the county’s commercial center.  By 1854 the town had its own cotton mill, the Greenesboro Manufacturing Company. The merchant class that profited from this commerce became the town’s elite.  After the Civil War and boll weevil devastation, Greensboro declined economically as did most of the once prosperous cotton kingdoms.

Once at the heart of the rich cotton belt and the center of Georgia commerce, downtown Greensboro has been slowly establishing itself as a regional destination for beautiful architecture, antiques, art, and local food.  Living in nearby Athens, visiting Greensboro makes an excellent day trip to relax, shop, and eat.  Check out my favorites!

The Greensboro Antique Mall is located in the former Big Store of 1860, owned by local banker and merchant Mr. Charles Davis.  The Big Store was the largest goods emporium between Atlanta and Augusta and boasted that they sold everything “from the cradle to the grave.”  Not a whole lot has changed since then.  The Greensboro Antique Mall has been in business since 1994 and its 11,000 square feet space is full of vintage treasures collected by 50 different dealers.

The shop is so enormous and full of unique items one could spend all day here.  After antiquing…take a respite down the street at the Yesterday Cafe for some sweet tea and comfort food.

This family owned restaurant is located on Main Street a few doors down from the antique mall.  They have just about every classic southern dish you can imagine from fried green tomatoes to country fried steak….and don’t forget the buttermilk pie (featured in Southern Living).

image courtesy Two Old Ladies on the road

I can’t ever leave Greensboro without a stop at the local Ripe Thing Market to pick up some goodies for the road.  This gourmet shop is full of local prepared foods, local meat and seafood, produce, ice cream, candy, and more.  They also have tons of samples so you can try a variety of items before purchasing.  I’m a huge fan of their homemade preserves, hoop cheese, and hibiscus tea.  They are open 7 days a week and their staff is so friendly and helpful.

image courtesy O’Brien Family Farms

These are just a few things to see and do in the charming town of Greensboro, Georgia!  Ever been there?  If so, what are some of your favorites?